Skip to contentWe invite you to discover Gordes – a picturesque village in the heart of Provence, where stone houses perch on hillsides and lavender fields intoxicate with their scent. As a team passionate about travel, we’re thrilled to share this corner of France: from its medieval heritage to natural wonders.
History and Culture
Medieval Legacy
We step onto land where every stone breathes history. Gordes, founded in Roman times, flourished in the Middle Ages as a fortified village. Its 11th-century castle guarded against invaders, and narrow cobbled streets preserve the spirit of those days. In the 20th century, Gordes became a magnet for artists like Marc Chagall, whose paintings immortalized its beauty.
Cultural Vibrance
We wander Gordes and feel its artistic soul. The summer music and theater festival at Château de Gordes comes alive under the stars. The Lavender Museum in nearby Cavaillon tells the story of Provence’s iconic flower. Local galleries offer paintings and ceramics, while markets brim with wine and truffles.
🎨 Fun Fact: Gordes is listed among France’s most beautiful villages – Les Plus Beaux Villages de France!
Natural Attractions
Lavender Fields and Hills
We can’t take our eyes off the lavender fields surrounding Gordes. From June to August, they blaze purple, creating fairy-tale landscapes. The Luberon Valley, with its olive groves and vineyards, is our haven for photos.
Cliffs and Canyons
We venture to the Sénanque Gorge, where a 12th-century abbey nestles amid lavender. Gordes’ rocky hills are perfect for hiking, and the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse springs offer refreshing walks.
🌿 Tip: Bring a camera – the scenery here is Instagram-worthy!
Tourism and Recreation
What to Do in Gordes
We love Gordes for its leisurely pace. Tourism here means strolling cobbled streets, each courtyard like a painting. We visit the Tuesday market, buying cheeses and honey, or rent bikes to explore the Luberon. Families enjoy picnics in the fields, while couples savor romantic dinners.
Activities and Relaxation
We recommend day trips to nearby villages like Roussillon, with its ochre cliffs. Hot air balloon rides over Provence are our favorite way to soak in the views. For tranquility, try spa treatments in local hotels or yoga amidst nature.
Flight Prices
We’ve gathered approximate flight costs to Marseille Airport (MRS), the closest to Gordes (1 hour by car), in dollars (as of April 2025):
- ✈️ Bucharest (Romania) – $70–110 (Ryanair).
- ✈️ London (UK) – $80–130 (EasyJet).
- ✈️ Berlin (Germany) – $90–140 (Lufthansa).
- ✈️ Paris (France) – $60–100 (Air France).
- ✈️ Tokyo (Japan) – $600–850 (with layovers, JAL).
- ✈️ New York (USA) – $400–550 (Delta).
Prices vary, so we suggest booking early!
Cuisine and Gastronomy
Taste of Provence
We savor Gordes in every dish. Local ratatouille – a vegetable medley – delights with its simplicity. Tapenade with olives and anchovies is our go-to snack. For dessert, tarte tatin with caramelized apples or lavender honey steals our hearts.
Local Delicacies
We adore markets for truffles, goat cheese, and Côtes du Rhône wine. Taverns serve soupe au pistou – a basil-infused soup that warms the soul.
Food Prices
- 🍴 Lunch at a restaurant – $15–25 per person.
- 🍷 Glass of wine – $4–6.
- ☕ Coffee – $2–3.
- 🧀 Tapas or snacks – $5–10.
We recommend dining at restaurants with terraces – Provence’s views enhance the flavors!
Lifestyle and Infrastructure
Gordes’ Rhythm
We feel that Gordes is where time drifts slowly. Locals – farmers, winemakers, and artisans – live in harmony with nature. Summer brings tourists, but the village retains its Provençal calm.
Infrastructure
We explore Gordes on foot – it’s compact. Buses to Avignon or Marseille cost $5–12. Car rentals start at $30/day, bikes at $12/day. Wi-Fi is available in hotels and cafés; medical services are in Cavaillon ($40 per consultation).
🏡 Accommodation: Guesthouse – from $90/night; hotel – from $120/night.
Practical Tips for Tourists
Our Recommendations
- 🗺️ Plan Ahead: Spend 2–3 days in Gordes + a day in the Luberon.
- 💵 Money: Bring dollars to exchange for euros (~1 USD = 0.9 EUR).
- ☀️ Season: June–August for lavender, spring or fall for calm.
- 🚶 Transport: Comfy shoes for cobbled streets.
- 🧢 Hat: The sun here is fierce!
Our Hacks
- Visit the market early – the best produce sells out fast.
- Book restaurants in advance, especially in summer.
- Buy lavender souvenirs at farms – they’re cheaper.
Conclusion
We’re convinced: Gordes is where the soul sings and the heart fills with Provence. Here, we uncover the beauty of lavender fields, savor wine, and feel part of a fairy tale. It’s not just a village – it’s an emotion that lingers forever. Pack your suitcase, book your tickets – Gordes awaits!
